Boxing is a sport where there is a great deal of risk. Injuries like lacerations, concussion, and broken bones are common. It's not what would typically come to mind when considering treatment for Parkinson's, but some patients with the disease are turning to the heavy bag for help. In classes with other Parkinson's patients, these fierce fighters are learning how to control muscle movements and stay as fit as possible.
Parkinson's is a degenerative disease that starts with shaking or mild muscle stiffness and can progress to total disability. Exercise has been shown to hold off the progression of the disease and give patients more stability in the large muscle groups. Boxing involves hand-eye coordination as well as strength and stamina, and all of those benefits are especially important for patients fighting off the devastating effects of Parkinson's. There's a sense of community in the class as well since patients are all going through similar struggles. There is currently no cure for Parkinson's, but these patients are giving the disease a one-two punch and sending it to the mat.
